All Posts in "Circuit Criminal Judges"

17th Circuit Judges Share Expertise at Statewide Conference

Judges from the 17th Judicial Circuit served as both learners and leaders at the 2025 Florida Conference of Circuit Judges in Orlando earlier this month.

  • Judge Jeffrey R. Levenson led a session on case management.
  • Judge Keathan B. Frink spoke on judicial and personal security.
  • Judge Lauren M. Alperstein presented “Show Me the Money – Beyond the Basics of Equitable Distribution.”

We’re proud to have such exceptional knowledge and experience right here in the 17th Judicial Circuit.

by — August 13, 2025 in Announcements
Students Get a Firsthand Look at Justice in Action

Students from the “New Diversion: An Alternative for Youth” program, led by Community Reconstruction Inc., got a powerful behind-the-scenes look at the justice system during a recent visit to the courthouse. They met Judge Corey B. Friedman in First Appearance Court, Judge Elijah H. Williams in Delinquency, and heard from Public Defender Tayron Lopez from the PD’s felony division.

The students witnessed the realities of juvenile detention, and heard powerful messages about making positive choices. A visit they won’t soon forget. 💬👣✨.

by — July 29, 2025 in Announcements
Strengthening the Bench and Bar at the 2025 Trial Advocacy Workshop

Judges Lauren M. Alperstein and Judge Christopher Wigand of the 17th Judicial Circuit shared their expertise at the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar Trial Advocacy Workshop, held July 23–27 at the JW Marriott Marquis in Miami.

Judge Alperstein served as a workshop leader, while Judge Wigand delivered a lecture on practical trial tips. The intensive program offered attendees the opportunity to sharpen their courtroom skills, work with expert witnesses, and receive one-on-one feedback as they prepared and presented a full family law case. Participants were paired with opposing counsel and mentored in small groups led by experienced judges, magistrates, and Board-Certified attorneys.

We’re proud to have judges who not only excel in the courtroom but are also deeply committed to advancing legal education and fostering excellence within the legal community.

by — July 28, 2025 in Announcements
A Salute to Service and Justice

Judge Edward H. Merrigan Jr., a highly decorated Major General in the U.S. Army, received a formal military sendoff during a retirement ceremony in Washington, D.C., complete with an honor guard, military bands, and heartfelt tributes. The ceremony was livestreamed on Facebook.

Now presiding in our Circuit Criminal division, Judge Merrigan founded the 17th’s Veterans Court in 2012, a specialized program helping veterans facing substance abuse or mental health challenges.

Major General Merrigan enlisted in the Army in 1994 and joined the Army Reserve in 1999, beginning his service as an International Law Officer with the 478th Civil Affairs Battalion in Perrine, FL. His distinguished career included a deployment to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom II.

During the Department of the Army and General Officer Retirement Ceremony, one speaker noted: “You represent the epitome of selfless service. Please accept our eternal thanks on behalf of a grateful nation.”

Thank you, Major General Merrigan, for your unwavering commitment to both country and community. Read our press release HERE. Watch the video HERE.


by — July 24, 2025 in Announcements
Judge Edward H. Merrigan, Jr., Retires from Military as Major General after 31 years

Circuit Court Judge Edward H. Merrigan, Jr., a two-star general in the U.S. Army, retired from the military this month after 31 years of service. Judge Merrigan oversees a criminal felony division and presides in Veterans Court, which he founded in 2012. He most recently served as commander of the 84th Training Command in Fort Knox, KY, sometimes traveling around the country as many as three weekends a month. We are proud to have you on our team. Thank you for your service. Read our press release HERE.

by — May 8, 2025 in Announcements
Judge Ari Abraham Porth Honored with Top Statewide Judicial Award for Judicial Excellence

Congratulations to Judge Ari Abraham Porth, who was chosen to receive the 2024 Chief Justice Award for Judicial Excellence in recognition of of his “personification of judicial excellence” and “exceptional commitment to the judicial branch.” The coveted annual award is presented to two judges statewide in Florida – one from circuit court and one from county court. Judge Porth is assigned to our Felony Mental Health division. Established in 2015, the award pays tribute to trial court judges whose achievements exceed the normal expectations of the office and considers factors such as strength of character, integrity, knowledge of the law, sound judgment, professional ethics, intellectual courage, compassion, and decisiveness. Amazing and well-deserved recognition! Read our press release HERE.

by — September 24, 2024 in Announcements
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